California & ADA Improvement Assistance Programs
When it comes to making improvements to disability access at existing facilities, many modifications can be made with little difficulty or expense. These types improvements are known as “Readily Achievable Barrier Removal”. Every business that is open to the public is required to make Readily Achievable improvements at their facilities if they do not already comply with the ADA. Failure to do so can make it harder for people with disabilities to visit and expose non-compliant businesses to an ADA lawsuit.
For many businesses located at existing facilities that pre-date the ADA (1990), there are also costly improvements that may not be Readily Achievable to address immediately. The good news is that there are financial assistance programs that can help lessen the cost disability access compliance. Beyond the tax credits and deductions that are applicable to ADA improvements, there are other programs that can provide assistance. Below are just some of the programs that can directly or indirectly subsidize ADA improvement costs.
Disabled Access Improvement Grants
Outdoor Business Grant - This grant is available to small businesses in San Diego, California. The grant offers a reimbursement of up to $20,000 for all expenses related to creating and installing a Sidewalk Cafe, Streetary, or Active Sidewalks project defined by the Spaces as Places program.
Storefront Improvement Program - This grant is available to small businesses in San Jose, California. The grant offers a credit of up to $8,000 for qualifying expenses including: CASp Hiring Costs & Permit Fees.
Grant to Make Your Business Accessible - This grant is available to small businesses in San Fransisco, California. The grant offers a reimbursement of up to $10,000 for qualifying expenses including: CASp Inspection & Report and for purchases of accessible furniture, fixtures and equipment.
Accessibility Financing Programs
California Capital Access Program (CalCAP) - This grant is available to small businesses located in the State of California. The program is designed to assist small businesses with financing the costs to alter or retrofit existing facilities to comply with the ADA requirements. The maximum loan amount is $5,000,000 and may be a good option for small businesses looking for a low rate to finance disability access improvements.
Storefront Improvement Programs
There are several Storefront Improvement Grant Programs that some southern California cities promote. While these programs are designed to modernize and improve the look of business storefronts, there may be an opportunity to improve disability access at the same time that cosmetic improvements are being made. One of the biggest reasons that businesses get targeted with an ADA lawsuit is because of architectural barriers at the entrance. If you have a small business that qualifies for one of these grants, you may be able to access funds to improve the appearance and accessibility of your business entrance. Below are some of Storefront Improvement Programs that are currently available:
